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1 In Colorado/ Colorado Springs/ Faith/ Family/ Finding our place/ Motherhood/ Moving/ Raising boys/ Things to do in Colorado

Our Adventure on Gold Camp Road

Two and a half years ago, when we decided to move to Colorado, I had mixed feelings. Part of me was excited about the new adventure, and part of me felt fear and even dread! I didn’t want to say good bye to all the things and the people we loved. I didn’t know anyone, or much of anything about Colorado! Then I stumbled across this quote:

“Always in the big woods when you leave familiar ground and step off alone into a new place there will be, along with the feelings of curiosity and excitement, a little nagging of dread. It is the ancient fear of the Unknown, and it is your first bond with the wilderness you are going into.” ~ Wendell Berry

Wow. I clung to this quote like I would a favorite Bible verse or security blanket.

Along with the quote was a picture of a tunnel on Gold Camp Road in Colorado Springs. I was determined to one day, find that tunnel, get a picture of it and post the quote.

On Thanksgiving 2017 – this dream finally became a reality!

We have an annual tradition of going out as a family on Thanksgiving morning. We like to spend the morning hiking or exploring. Since we didn’t have any friends or family in town this year, we decided to try to find the tunnel.  We weren’t exactly sure where it was or how far we’d have to hike/drive. Someone sort of told me where it was, and we headed off.

We drove past Helen Hunt Falls and continued up the mountain until the road became a dirt (Lower Gold Camp Road). We continued on this gorgeous road about a mile until – “wah – lah!” There it was, right in front of us. We parked and explored this incredible tunnel. It was everything I had imagined and more. Stunning, spooky, enormous, and picturesque!

 

  

I’m grateful to call Colorado Springs home. I’m glad I was able to move beyond the fear (and the dread) of leaving what was familiar and those we loved to embrace this new adventure! I honestly can’t believe we get to call Colorado home!

 

 

December 9, 2017 By
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5 In Book Review/ Colorado Springs/ Motherhood/ My Journey/ Product Recommendations/ Things to do in Colorado

Climb, Soar, Swim, Explore! The story behind the story.

 



My husband Ted has been working on a book for a couple of years now. One day as we were talking about HIS book, he mentioned that I should write a book. Unfortunately, my first answer was, “I can’t write a book.” (I’m finding this is a pattern with me, and not a good one!)

Nelson Mandela once said,

“It always seems impossible until it’s done.”

That sums up how I was feeling (and how I felt most of the way)

As I continued to think about it, I realized I COULD write a book – a Children’s Book! I’ve been reading children’s literature since I was a child. Because I’ve probably read a million children’s books by now, I can recognize the good ones, the bad ones – and the amazing ones that needs to be read over and over!!

Begin Writing

So… I started writing. I had lots of ideas and wrote some in a journal by hand, typed some on my computer, I even typed ideas into the “notes” section on my phone. Then…I finally had ideas that came together into a ‘story’ that might even work as my first BOOK!

From there, I started sharing it – I read it to my kids and asked for their feedback. I read it to my kid’s classes and asked for feedback. I sent it to friends and family and asked for their feedback. I tweaked and changed and edited until I was ready for the next step:

Finding an illustrator

I reached out to a ton of illustrators and most never returned my calls or emails. The ones who did respond said that they charge up to $20,000 per project. That was not realistic for me.

From there, I said, “God, if you want me to finish this project, you’ll need to help me find an illustrator. Bring the right person across my path.”

In August 2017, we had a neighborhood picnic and a face painter was there. His name was Cedric Taylor. He brought several illustrations with him of examples of what he could paint. His pictures were fun, happy, inviting, and just beautiful – exactly what I was looking for in my book! I wrote down his name and knew he was THE ONE!

I found out that he worked at a local art studio and showed up there one afternoon in early September. I gave Cedric a copy of my manuscript and asked if he would want to work with me.

He called me the next day and said that he would be willing to illustrate the book and already had sketches drawn! We met at 5:30 am at our local YMCA and when I saw the work he had done, I cried. I love how God gives each person gifts that are so different. Cedric’s drawings were incredible. I was amazed how he brought the story to life! We agreed on a price for his work and from there I focused on…

Finding a graphic artist

I happened to remember that one of my new friends in Colorado Springs is in charge of designing and publishing my favorite Bible studies. She uses amazon.com‘s Create Space to self-publish. I reached out to her to see if I could hire her as my book designer to help make this book a reality. She said YES!

So … between my writing, the beautiful illustrations by Cedric Taylor, the incredible design work of Kristall Willis and SO many others who gave ideas, edited, supported the Go Fund Me Page campaign … we have a PUBLISHED book!

This is a fictional story of the Egly boys climbing Pikes Peak and encountering the animals that actually live there. Children will enjoy this adventure story and learn some fun facts about Colorado Wildlife!

A resource to find other avenues to publish is the annual Writer’s Market: A Guide to Getting Published.

December 4, 2017 By
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6 In Colorado/ Colorado Springs/ Motherhood/ Raising boys/ Things to do in Colorado

Cotillion – what is it and why your child would benefit from it!

Last year our family was introduced to Cotillion, and we absolutely loved it!

Why do we love it?

Cotillion teaches:

  • COURTESY,
  • CONFIDENCE,
  • LEADERSHIP and
  • RESPECT!

Tools they can use throughout their life!

Boys and girls who attend Cotillion will also be learning about:

  • good manners,
  • polite conversation,
  • ballroom dancing,
  • etiquette, and 
  • how to make a GOOD first impression.

Regarding Ballroom Dancing, here is why Cotillion teaches kids to dance:

“Dance breaks down inhibitions, teaches physical respect, develops confidence, establishes teamwork and cooperation, reinforces non-verbal and verbal communication, and teaches students how to appropriately interact with the opposite gender in a structured and healthy environment.”

As a mother, I love giving my boys opportunities to build confidence. I want them to know how to handle themselves in uncomfortable situations and how to communicate with people of all ages. I want them to be courteous and use good manners. The Cotillion instructors teach, reinforce and encourage all of those skills in a fun and safe environment!

The Carnegie foundation indicates that over 85% of one’s career success is directly connected to one’s social skills!

Here are some details about the Colorado Springs Cotillion:

What age: For children in 3rd – 8th Grades

When: One evening a week for 6 weeks, beginning in January. Online registration can be done at Cotillion.com (It’s recommended that you register early – class sizes are limited and filled on a first-come, first-served basis.)

This is the schedule for the 3rd-4th grade class:

Introduction to Social Skills
Listening & Conversation
Courtesy & Consideration
Making Good Choices
Table Manners
Final Party / Parents Night
5:15 – 6:30 PM
The Broadmoor Hotel

 

You can register here: cotillion.com

Note: There are discounts for military and educators, as well as need-based discounts. Send them a note if you want info on that!

PS – We find suits we love for our boys at HMKids.com: Search Blazer and Suit Pants!

November 28, 2017 By
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0 In Book Review/ Colorado Springs/ Giveaway

Climb, Soar, Swim, Explore! Go Fund Me Update

Thank you to each of you who have pre-ordered and given to my first ever GO FUND ME campaign to publish my first children’s book entitled: Climb, Soar, Swim, Explore!  I can’t wait to send a first edition, signed copy to each of you who pre-order this book!

Here are some campaign stats as of Saturday, November 11 at 10 pm, five days into the campaign:

  • 26 people have contributed from $15-$150 – thank you!
  • 66 people have shared the campaign on Facebook – thank you!
  • $1,155 toward to goal of $1,500 has been raised!! THANK YOU!!
  • We are more than 2/3 of the way there – thank you!
  • 10 signed copies will be given to local foster children with a message of love and encouragement written inside the cover from each person who gave $30 or more. Thank you!
  • 5 names will go into a drawing today. One person will win a custom art piece from the book’s illustrator – Cedric Taylor – because they contributed $100 or more towards the campaign. THANK YOU!! Watch for a video on Facebook of the winner’s name being chosen!
  • 5 people will get their names listed in the back of the book under “Special Thanks!” for giving $150! Thank you!
  • Each person who’s contributed so far has been given a free copy of the Holiday Gift Guide!

It’s NOT too late to support this campaign! You can give as little as $5 and receive the Holiday Gift Guide — all the way up to $150 and receive a whole lot more!

Go to gofundme.com/kathrynegly to pre-order your copy and help pay for the publication costs!

For more info on the book, GO HERE.

Please click on the tiny comment box beside the title of this post to ask a question about the book or the campaign and I will respond within 24 hours!

I love your comments, suggestions, feedback, and questions!

November 12, 2017 By
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0 In Colorado Springs/ Food

We Love our Veterans! 50 options for free food and drinks!

I’ve been trying to teach my boys that we value and respect our military – both those who are serving and those who have served.

A couple of SIMPLE ways to do that:

  • THANK those we see in uniform.
  • Stop what we are doing when we hear the national anthem, put our hands on our hearts and face the flag. During this time we reflect on our gratitude for our country and for the men and women who serve to protect it.

This summer my kids were outside playing when suddenly, the national anthem starting at Air Force Academy and we could hear it from our driveway. My son, Clark – age 7 at the time, stopped all of his friends from playing and showed them what to do when the national anthem is played. Afterwards, he explained why we do this.

I had to quickly take a picture as I stood with them because I didn’t want to forget this precious moment. Thank you to each of you who serve or have served!

 

One person I’m especially grateful for is my father-in-law, Kevin, who retired from the Air Force. Here he a man of honor and I’m glad to have him as my father-in-law and a Papa to my four sons. Here they last week, stopping once again to show honor during the National Anthem.

 

Not only does our family appreciate our veterans, but so do each of the following FIFTY stores and restaurants who are offering free food and drinks to our Veterans this weekend!

Applebee’s
Veterans and Active Duty Military can select a free meal from a limited menu on Veteran’s Day. Provide proof of service required.

Back Yard Burgers
Military veterans with valid ID, and active duty servicemembers in uniform, can enjoy a free ‘Classic Burger’ on Veterans Day.

Baker’s Square Free Breakfast
Veterans and active duty get a complimentary breakfast on Veterans Day at participating locations. Choose between Buttermilk Pancakes, three slices of French Toast or a Belgian Waffle.

Bar Louie

Free burger or Flatbread on Veterans Day.

Bob Evans
Bob Evans Restaurants are offering free select menu items to Veterans and Active Duty Military on Veterans Day.

Bonanza Steakhouse
On Veterans Day, all former and current military service men and women enjoy a free buffet (beverage not included), at all participating Bonanza Steakhouses. Contact your local Bonanza for more details.

Bruegger’s Bagels
U.S. Military Veterans and active military members who show ID and proof of service can receive a Free Small Drip Coffee. No purchase necessary.

Buffalo Wild Wings Free Wings
Veterans and active duty military who dine-in at their local B-Dubs can receive a free one small order of traditional or boneless wings and a side of fries. At participating U.S. locations

California Pizza Kitchen
On Veterans Day, all veterans or active duty military personnel will be able to select a free entree from a special Veterans Day menu including pizza, salads and pasta. Please come in uniform or bring your military ID or other proof of service.

Chevys Fresh Mex
On Veterans Day from 11am to 10pm, Chevys Fresh Mex will offer a complimentary Fresh Mex 3-Item combo to all active and veteran military personnel.

Chili’s

Free meal for Veteran’s on Veterans Day.

Chuck E. Cheese
To thank service members past and present, on Veteran’s Day on Nov. 11, Chuck E. Cheese’s will be offering one free personal pizza to all active and retired military members at participating stores nationwide. Promo code #5500.

Cici’s Pizza
Free pizza buffet if you show a valid Military ID.

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
Veterans receive a complimentary Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola® Cake dessert to veterans and an opportunity for guests to make purchases that support Operation Homefront.  Veterans Day only.

Denny’s

Free Grand Slam on Monday.

Dunkin’ Donuts
On November 11, Veterans and active duty military can enjoy a free donut at Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants nationwide, no purchase necessary.

Famous Dave’s
On Nov. 11, in honor of Veteran’s Day all former and current military personnel will receive a free two meat Combo.

Granite City Food & Brewery
Veterans and active military can stop in for a complimentary lunch on Veterans Day from 11am – 3pm.

Houlihan’s
Receive a free entree from a select menu on Veteran’s Day 11/11 with proof of veteran status or active service in the military.

IKEA Free Entree
Veterans can enjoy a free entree at IKEA. Please show some form of military ID.

Joe’s Crab Shack
On November 11th, all veterans will receive a free appetizer. Present or display the coupon.

Logan’s Roadhouse
This Veterans Day, veterans and active duty drop on in for an American Roadhouse Meal on the house. Not valid in CA, NC, SC or Augusta, GA, locations. Veterans year round receive a 10% discount to guests who present a military or veterans’ ID.

Little Caesars Pizza
On Saturday, November 11, from 11am to 2pm, veterans and active military members can receive a free $5 HOT-N-READY® Lunch Combo.

LongHorn Steakhouse
This Veterans Day LongHorn Steakhouse will offer a free appetizer or dessert (no purchase required, no restrictions) to anyone showing proof of military service.

Macaroni Grill
Free Mom’s Ricotta Meatballs & Spaghetti entrée this Veteran’s Day, Saturday, November 11th to all veterans and active military.

Margaritas Mexican Restaurant
Margaritas is offering complimentary entrees to all veterans and active members of the military, as well as their significant others this Veterans Day.

Max & Erma’s Free Cheeseburger Combo Meal with Dessert
On Veterans Day, participating Max & Erma’s locations are celebrating veterans and active military personnel with a free cheeseburger, endless fries and a fountain drink.

Mimi’s Cafe
U.S. Veterans or active duty military personnel can select food items from a special menu on Veteran’s Day for free. Drink purchase is required. Please show proof of military service.

O’Charley’s
O’Charley’s will honor our military on Veterans Day by offering veterans and active duty service members a free $9.99 entree at any location on November 11th. Additionally, O’Charley’s offers a 10 percent military discount all year long.

Olive Garden Free Meal
On Veterans Day, Olive Garden restaurants will offer a free entrée from a special menu to active-duty military and veterans. The special menu features six of Olive Garden’s most popular items. Entrées are served with unlimited soup, salad and garlic bread sticks.

On The Border Free Entree
This Veterans Day, all veterans and active duty military will receive a free combo meal at OTB’s. The meal is from the”Create Your Own Combo menu,” which is a “choose 2” or “choose 3” menu.

Outback Steakhouse Free Bloomin’ Onion® and a beverage
All active, retired military and veterans get a free Bloomin’ Onion® and a beverage on Veterans Day. Must have valid identification. Additionally, November 8 through November 10, military members will receive 20% off their check and, Military, Fire and Police heroes will receive 10% off their check.

Petro Stopping Centers
All active duty military, veterans and reservists with proof of service can enjoy a complimentary meal from a select menu that includes a beverage on Veterans Day Nov. 11 at any participating Country Pride or Iron Skillet restaurant nationwide.

Ponderosa Steakhouses
From 4pm-close on Veterans Day, all former and current military service men and women enjoy a free buffet (beverage not included) from participating Ponderosa locations. Contact your local Ponderosa for more details.

Red Lobster
To thank Veterans, active duty military and reservists, Red Lobster will offer a free appetizer or dessert from their select Veterans Day menu. To receive offer, show a valid military ID on November 11th.

Red Robin

All Veterans and Active Duty Military get a free dine-in Red’s Tavern Double Burger and Bottomless Steak Fries on Veterans Day 11/11.

Rib Crib

Veterans and active military service members can choose a free meal from RibCrib’s Menu of Honor that includes a choice of two meats and two sides, including their slow-smoked meats and award-winning St. Louis spare ribs.

Rock & Brews

Rock & Brews is offering all active duty military, veterans, and first responders a complimentary meal on Veteran’s Day at any Rock & Brews location nationwide.

Rock Bottom Restaurants & Breweries

Participating locations will offer a free entrée on Veterans Day, November 11th, to veterans and active duty military. Vets can select from any entrée on the menu including Rock Bottom Signature Items.

Ruby Tuesday

This Veterans Day, all former and active duty service members of the military can enjoy a free appetizer.

Shoney’s Offers Free All You Care to Eat Breakfast

Shoney’s says ‘Thank You’ to America’s heroes by offering a free All You Care To Eat breakfast,  to all Veterans and Active Duty Military members on Veterans Day from 6am – 11 am.

Sizzler Free Lunch

Sizzler is proud to honor and celebrate United States veterans and active-duty military personnel with a free lunch and beverage before 4 p.m. on Veterans Day, November 11.

Starbucks

On Veterans Day, active duty service members, reservists, veterans and military spouses are invited to enjoy a free Tall Brewed Coffee.

Tap House Grill

On Veterans Day, all active, inactive and retired military personnel can get a complimentary meal (dine in only).

Texas de Brazil

50% off for up to 2 veterans and 20% off for up to 6 additional guests at the table during dinner this Veterans Day.

Texas Roadhouse

Select from a free special veterans lunch menu including a beverage and sides.

TGI Fridays Free Lunch

Guests who show valid military ID can enjoy a free lunch menu item up to $12 on November 11th and 12th.

Village Inn Free Breakfast

All who have served get a free Inn-Credible V.I.B. breakfast on Veterans Day.

Happy Veterans Day!!

November 10, 2017 By
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2 In Colorado/ Colorado Springs/ Food/ Free stuff/ Review/ Things to do in Colorado

7 reasons to LOVE Modern Market

We LOVE Modern Market and here are seven reasons why!

1 – Sunday and Monday you can buy one adult meal, and get one kid’s meal free!

Their kid’s meals are awesome – my boys love their grilled chicken and vegetables. (How can I say no to that?)

2 – With the Modern Market app I have on my phone, I earn points towards free food at every visit!
https://www.thelevelup.com/c/HWGVEF0MBC

3 – If you save your receipt and present it at your next visit (within seven days), you will get 10% off your order!

4 – The food is delicious and HEALTHY (farm to table)!

5 – $2 glasses of wine

6 – Free meal for your birthday!

7 – The more you spend, the bigger your bonuses get!

Visit Modern Market soon – but first download this app – $3 off your first order just for signing up! And the rewards keep adding up after that!
https://www.thelevelup.com/c/HWGVEF0MBC

SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss future posts on how to save a little $!

Do you have a Modern Market near you? What do you like to order?

 

November 4, 2017 By
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40 In Book Review/ Colorado/ Colorado Springs/ Raising boys

I’ve written a children’s book – and I need your feedback!

The Magnificent Four who love to explore!

I’ve written a book about my boys climbing Pike’s Peak and encountering the animals that actually live on this mountain but I need your help with the title!

I want something easy to read and catchy. Here are my top picks – they are all similar –  but which wording do you like best? They allude to ADVENTURE and ANIMALS! Let me know your favorite!

1. CLIMB, EXPLORE!

                 SWIM, SOAR!

2. CLIMB, SOAR!

               SWIM, EXPLORE!

3. CLIMB, SWIM,

               SLITHER SOAR!

4. Climb, Explore, Splash, slither, soar!

  (subtitle –   A Pike’s Peak Mountain Adventure)

PLEASE leave me a comment (Little box in the top right corner beside the title) and tell me – what’s your favorite title?

October 31, 2017 By
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2 In Colorado/ Colorado Springs/ Food/ Free stuff/ Saving money

Don’t cook dinner! 8 places to Eat for cheap (or free) on Halloween!

APPLEBEE’S

Head to Applebee’s with your Halloween costume and your kids eat free. (You may want to give your local restaurant a call to make sure they’re participating.)

BASKIN-ROBBINS

In case you’re looking for something sweet before the real Halloween sugar rush, hit up Baskin-Robbins, where all regular and kids-sized scoops are $1.50 on the 31st. If you don’t want sugar with your sugar tomorrow, mark your calendar for the next 31st – every 31st day of the month, get ice cream for $1.50!

CHIPOTLE

As part of their annual Boorito offer, anyone who comes by in costume from 3pm to close gets a $3 burrito, bowl, salad or order of tacos.

IHOP

Not only is IHOP offering free food on Halloween — they’re making it totally okay for kids to play with their food. From 7am through 10pm, kids ages 12 and under can get a free Scary Face Pancake and design their own pancake using toppings like strawberries, whipped cream, Mini Oreos and candy corn.

SONIC DRIVE-IN

Swing by Sonic to grab 50-cent corn dogs all day on Halloween.

LARKBURGER

One FREE kid’s meal from open to close on Halloween with an adult purchase of $9. Each additional kids meal is only $3. If you visit Larkburger during their “happy hour” between 3-5pm (every day of the year!) small burgers are only $3.

ON THE BORDER

Get 12 mini, individually wrapped Chicken or Beef burritos for $12.99 (chips and salsa are usually thrown in for free!)

KRISPY KREME

I don’t have one around me (boo-hoo) but if you have a Krispy Kreme in your area – stop by for a free donut on Halloween!

What have you decided? Where will I find YOU eating tomorrow? Leave me a comment! (small box beside title)

Don’t forget to subscribe (on the right) so you don’t miss a post!

October 30, 2017 By
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0 In Book Review/ Colorado Springs/ Faith/ Family/ Serving

My Journey, Part 4 – A New Role!

The truth is that the Spirit of the living God is guaranteed to ask you to go somewhere or do something you wouldn’t normally want or choose to do…The Holy Spirit of God will mold you into the person you were made to be. -Francis Chan

For the last 6 years, I’ve been a stay-at-home mom to my four little boys. (Read about that here)

This summer, I was invited to join the children’s ministry team at New Life Church in Colorado Springs.

Once again, my first reaction was: “No thank you, I’m a busy mama with four little boys!” But I knew I needed to stay quiet and listen, then pray about this before responding. And that’s what I did.

We’ve loved being a part of New Life church – we have a community of friends here! And I’m passionate about Children’s Ministry! So…after talking it through with Ted, and PRAYING, I felt that in spite of any fears or wondering if I could do this…I needed to say YES to becoming the Children’s Ministry Director of New Life Friday Night (the Friday night congregation of New Life Church).

I am blessed to be a part of an incredible team, work with amazing children, in a role that I am passionate about. It’s also a supportive and flexible environment – what more could you ask for?

This new role began in September, and the first step was recruiting new volunteers. I STRONGLY believe that adults (and teenagers) need to come alongside our children – to teach them, encourage them, and love them! It made a HUGE difference in my young life (click here to read that story) and I know it makes a difference in the lives of the children who attend New Life.

28 days ago, we started a campaign asking for 90 new volunteers in 90 days. As of October 20th, 2017, we have 60 new volunteers committed to serve our kids!!! I am now getting the volunteers plugged into the the right spots so that they flourish in their roles! I will be supporting them, their families, and the staff at New Life Friday Night.

Though I sometimes feel inadequate as a mother, director, and writer – I know that God working in me and through me can accomplish great things. I ask Him for help each day – that He would use my life to be a blessing to my family and to others. I pray daily for wisdom as I parent my children, write for those who read this, and coordinate our Friday night children’s ministry! I would cherish your prayers as well!

And I hope that if you live in the area, you will visit me at New Life North. We meet at 6:30 PM every Friday!

October 20, 2017 By
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2 In Colorado/ Colorado Springs/ Family/ Food/ Raising boys/ Saving money

How to Eat for FREE at Carabba’s, Flemings, Bonefish Grille and Outback!

I am raising FOUR boys.

Four constantly hungry boys.

I am ALWAYS looking for ways to save money on FOOD!

And honestly, who doesn’t like free and delicious food?

I’ve found a few ways to save money on food and wanted to share those with my readers.

If you like the following restaurants:

  • Outback Steakhouse,
  • Carrabba’s Italian Grill,
  • Bonefish Grill or
  • Fleming’s Steakhouse.

Then you should sign up for Dine Rewards!

With Dine Rewards, you earn $20-40 worth of FREE FOOD after every 3rd visit to any of those 4 restaurants!

All you do is sign up, then give the person your PHONE NUMBER at check out! After 3 visits, you earn FREE FOOD!

Have you tried the chicken dishes at Carrabba’s?  They are incredible! In fact, Ted and I love to share the Chicken Trio. Three different and equally delicious pieces of chicken. Yum.

https://www.dine-rewards.com/referral/ejMcambfcAdkHHBpEMMdDBjLLECfBNLBa

This is not yet a NATION-WIDE program, but I know it’s valid in the Chicago area and Colorado Springs. Click on the link above to see if they do this awesome program in your area!

Don’t forget to subscribe so that you don’t miss the other FREE FOOD opportunities I’ll be posting about soon!

October 14, 2017 By
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